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Exemption for Non-Permit Holders During Hurricanes
If you know that a hurricane will be barreling down on your home and you need to evacuate, what are the first things you will pack? If you are like most people, you will pack at least a few days worth of clothing for the family and, if you have time to think straight, any valuables that you do not want looted or damaged.
Will you grab your firearms? Florida has recently passed a new law that allows for gun owners without permits to carry their firearms with them as they flee their homes for safer ground. Lawmakers in the state did not want to see the same issues arise in Florida as did in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina.
As people were being evacuated during and after Katrina, police confiscated hundreds of guns. The guns were taken from the evacuees directly and from abandoned homes. While people weren’t necessarily charged criminally for possessing those weapons, they were held in possession of law enforcement for several years.
Firearms were only returned to their owners after a lawsuit was filed against the city by the Second Amendment Foundation and the National Rifle Association.
Senator Jeremy Ring opposed the passage of the bill. In his eyes, the chaos that occurred in New Orleans is exactly why people should not be permitted to walk around the streets with weapons. “I don’t feel comfortable to have people running around with guns in a riotous situation.”
In typical circumstances, Floridians who have a weapon on or about their person without a legal concealed carry permit can be charged with a third-degree felony. Those arrested face up to five years in prison. The new law makes an exception for people carrying weapons while evacuating during a state of emergency as declared by the governor or local law enforcement. The exception is only good for 48 hours, but the governor can extend the time period.
Most people, according to Marion Hammer, a former NRA president, most people would not leave their firearms behind to be stolen or destroyed. The law, without the exception, makes criminals out of law-abiding citizens. The new provision is a win for gun rights supporters.
Unlike current bills that are asking for guns to be allowed in schools and on college and university campuses, this bill received very little opposition. The bill stopped in five committees, and no one from the public spoke against it. Lawmakers report receiving only a handful of emails from private citizens opposing the bill.
Decades of Trusted Service. Hundreds of Grateful Voices.
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“David Katz sets the standard by which all other defense attorney's must measure. He not only knows his craft and has the experience to back it up, he relishes forcing his opponents to follow the law towards the best outcome for his clients.”- Karate K.
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“Christine Vazquez took on our case with a 24hr commitment. She put everything on the line to hold the judicial system accountable.”- Phil W.
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“I can’t thank attorneys Christine Vazquez and David Katz enough for the incredible job they did on my DUI case.”- Gabriel H.
Why Hire Katz & Phillips?
Some important reasons to secure experienced representation include:
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Board-Certified* Attorneys
Our founding attorneys are two of three board-certified* DUI defense lawyers in the state.
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Former Prosecution Experience
As former prosecutors, we bring an invaluable perspective and skillset to every case.
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High Success Rate in Criminal Defense
With a 90%+ success rate, our proven track record of success speaks for itself.
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Decades of Experience
With more than 10,000 cases handled, our advocates are well versed in criminal law to help you navigate your case with care and efficiency.
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Always Responsive
Our team is available to take your call and address any questions or concerns you have.
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Financing Available
The last thing you need during a criminal case is financial stress. Our firm offers financing with no credit check required.
Meet Your Dedicated Defense Team
Led by two of Florida's Board-Certified* DUI Experts, Our attorneys bring together more than 50 years of success, defending clients across Florida against criminal and DUI charges.
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DUI Charges Reduced
The court deemed all other conditions satisfied so M.A. did not have to go on probation at all and walked out of courthouse with a fine and fees to pay, and the case behind her.
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Case Dismissed
J.A.R. had had a previous DUI conviction and was facing mandatory jail time if convicted of this offense. In reviewing the discovery provided by the state, our team found several issues with the police investigation, and realized that our clients’ rights had been violated.
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All Charges Dropped
In reviewing the evidence provided by the State our team realized that T.R.’s rights had been violated when she was immediately illegally arrested by the Trooper. Further, there were many other errors made by the Trooper which would result in the evidence gathered being suppressed.
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All Charges Dropped
In this case, our client, R.H., was out with friends. A family member who was angry with him tracked his location by tracking his cell phone, called the police, told them he was very drunk, and led the police right to his car. The officers stopped his car and eventually arrested him.
Our Case Results
Two of Florida’s only Board-Certified* DUI Defense experts fighting for you.
- DUI Charges Reduced
- Case Dismissed
- All Charges Dropped
- All Charges Dropped
